Today, it operates as a bar and restaurant and attracts an upscale Roman and international crowd.[1][2]
It is not related to Harry's Bars in Venice, Florence, Paris or London.
History
Harry's Bar Rome
Harry's Bar Rome opened in 1918 under the name "Golden Gate". The owner, an American woman who lived in Rome, found her inspiration for the restaurant name from her native town of San Francisco, California. The Golden Gate is the strait between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
The owner, originally from Rome, decided to open the bar as a tea saloon. In 1950, a new owner bought the place and decided to renovate the business and change its name from Golden Gate to Harry's Bar Rome.
Dolce Vita years
During the "Dolce Vita" years (late 1950s to early 1960s), Harry's Bar had its most successful period. Rome saw a period of economic boom. Cinecittà attracted American directors, producers, actors and actresses.
During this period, it was usual to see Anita Ekberg[5] seated at the table drinking after shopping in Via Frattina.[5]Frank Sinatra famously played the bar's piano.[6]
The paparazzi crowded the exit of Harry's Bar Rome in order to take celebrity photos, including Rino Barillari, a historic Dolce Vita photographer.[7]
Aftermath
During the 80s, Harry's Bar Rome was bought and renovated by the Cremonini group.
Harry's Bar Rome - Inside view
In the early 2000s Harry's Bar Rome was bought and renovated by the Lepore family. Today, the bar recreates the atmosphere of the Dolce Vita years.[5]
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Paparazzi are independent photographers who take pictures of celebrities, prominent public figures, and other high-profile people; namely professional athletes and entertainers who typically go about their usual daily life routines. Paparazzi tend to make a living by selling their photographs to media outlets that focus on tabloid journalism and sensationalism.
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